Benefits of Entering
Entering the Graduate Awards offers young chefs far more than a chance to test their skills. It provides structured career development, mentorship, industry exposure, and a pathway to future opportunities. Designed as an exam rather than a competition, the programme gives confidence, deepens culinary knowledge, and connects chefs with respected leaders across the industry.
Whether you're aiming to strengthen core techniques or elevate your career prospects, the Graduate Awards provide an exceptional platform for growth.
Why should you enter?
- The Awards are designed to help young chefs develop both practical and theoretical knowledge, supporting personal and professional growth.
- Each entrant must have a workplace mentor. They can also receive additional guidance from the Graduate Awards “Champions” who are past achievers who provide advice through every stage.
- Chairs of Examiners, Sally Abé and Sarah Frankland offer invaluable insight and guidance throughout the process.
- Because it’s an exam rather than a competition, there’s no limit to how many chefs can pass, creating an inclusive experience that focuses on development. We see chefs working together in the exams rather than against each other.
- Kitchen entrants complete a theory exam, butchery and fishmongery tasks, classic dishes and mystery basket challenges which are all designed to enhance real-world confidence and technical ability.
- Finalists benefit from a two-day summer mentor experience featuring masterclasses, producer visits, and the chance to develop specialist skills while forming close bonds with fellow chefs.
- Entrants connect with peers, previous graduates, mentors and industry leaders, helping build a valuable professional network early in their careers.
- Graduates of the Kitchen Award earn the chance to compete in the Young National Chef of the Year, one of the UK’s most prestigious culinary competitions.
- Achieving the Graduate Award is highly respected within the hospitality industry and often leads to increased interest from employers and new opportunities.
- The awards were founded to give young chefs a safe, supportive environment to test themselves, grow, and realise their potential.
- Each year those who achieve the Graduate Awards receive some fabulous prizes from sponsor gifts to industry experiences.